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2011 Jaguar XKR Convertible, an Autoweek Drivers Log Car Review

September 11, 2011

The supercharged V8 in the Jaguar XKR convertible is rated at 510 hp.

EXECUTIVE EDITOR ROGER HART: This 2011 Jaguar XKR convertible remains one of the best-looking cars on the road. It's graceful and elegant, plus it looks fast just sitting still. I harped enough about the touch-screen interface for the navigation/entertainment/vehicle info. You have to wade through pages to do things that a simple button would do. Yes, I know buttons clutter things up, but there are more efficient ways than the touch screen.

I still like the way the gear-select knob rises up from the console once the engine lights. I also love the seat controls on the doors, and the top operation is one-button, quick and easy.

The price tag is a bit steep for what is essentially a two-seat ragtop, but man, this is one beautiful car. And to be able to drop the top on a night like last night, well, if you're close to having the coin to buy a car such as this, a few nights cruising some back country roads like I did would make it all worthwhile.

SENIOR ART DIRECTOR CHERYL L. BLAHNIK: When you see a Jaguar XKR, your eyes instantly focus on the clean, flowing lines of the body. That's a primer for an equally pleasing interior with soft leathers and comfortable seats. Like Hart, one of my favorite features inside the cabin is the gear-selector dial that rises on the center console. There are also little things like a heated steering wheel, but unlike Roger, I'm not too offended by the touch-screen controls. Once you get used to it, it's actually pretty easy to navigate through.

I'm also a fan of the 5.0-liter supercharged V8 with its instant, forceful punch which is unlocked with a jab of your right foot. The six-speed automatic transmission was really smooth, and shifts are almost unnoticeable.

However, all the fun and luxury in this Jaguar XKR convertible certainly does come at a price. The $108,000 as-tested price is steep, and that price tag isn't too inflated with optional features that you can knock off.

But if you're looking for a powerful and responsive luxury drop-top cruiser for the summer and have a little extra disposable income to play with, this Jag would be perfect.